NFL Veteran and Academic Leader Dr. George Koonce Inducted as Honorary Member of Phi Beta Sigma

Today, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. inducted Dr. George Koonce, a Super Bowl champion, scholar, mentor, and university leader, as an Honorary Member during its 2025 International Conclave in Tampa, Florida. The recognition honors a remarkable life defined by service, scholarship, and social impact beyond the football field.

A former linebacker for the Green Bay Packers and member of their 1996 Super Bowl-winning team, Dr. Koonce has earned the nickname “The Doctor of Defense”—not only for his leadership on the field but for his academic rigor off it. One of only two players in the Packers’ 100-year history to earn a Ph.D., Koonce has emerged as a leading voice in athlete development and higher education.

After earning his master’s in Sport Management from East Carolina University and completing his doctorate in Sport Administration at Marquette University, Koonce transitioned into university leadership. He has held key positions at Marquette University, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and now serves as Senior Vice President for University Relations at Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. His work there includes leading the Dr. George E. Koonce Scholars Program, which supports Milwaukee youth pursuing higher education.

In 1999, he founded the George Koonce Sr. Foundation to provide educational, athletic, and cultural opportunities to underprivileged children. He also co-authored Is There Life After Football? – Surviving the NFL, a critical examination of the challenges athletes face transitioning out of the league.

Koonce currently serves on the NFL Player Engagement Advisory Board and the Board of Directors for both the Green Bay Packers and Horicon Bank. A familiar voice in Wisconsin media, he also hosts “Backstage with George Koonce” and “Locker Room” for Green Bay’s CBS affiliate.

“We’re excited to welcome this class of honorary members to the Phi Beta Sigma Brotherhood,” said Chris V. Rey, J.D., International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. “Their professional achievements and community service engagement make them perfect candidates for Honorary Membership.”

Dr. Koonce joins a distinguished 2025 honorary line that includes civil rights icon Dr. Howard Fuller; hip-hop legend Edward “Special Ed” Archer; actor and singer Leon Robinson; gospel trailblazer Fred Hammond; Southern University Chancellor Dr. John K. Pierre; fashion entrepreneur Dave “UNK” Huie; and financial freedom advocate Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.